Country House Secrets: Behind closed doors

A guide to the etiquette and customs of country house life, including the duties of servants, visitors, and housekeeping, based on contemporary maxims and period manuals.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 28 August 2019
Publisher: Rydon Publishing

This captivating and insightful guide delves into the fascinating world of country houses, offering a comprehensive exploration of their history, customs, and daily life. Written by Ruth Binney, a renowned authority on the subject, the book provides a detailed account of the roles and responsibilities of the master's valet and lady's maid within the grand residences of the past.

The author delves into the intricate details of the country house's daily routine, shedding light on the various duties and responsibilities of the servants. From managing the household to preparing meals, cleaning, and entertaining guests, the valet and lady's maid played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the estate.

Furthermore, the book delves into the protocols and etiquette that governed the behavior of both residents and visitors within the country house. From the rules of social hierarchy to the proper handling of guests, Binney provides a comprehensive guide to the customs and traditions that shaped the social fabric of these grand residences.

What sets this book apart is its authentic and engaging style. Binney weaves practical advice and historical anecdotes seamlessly into her narrative, providing readers with a vivid sense of the world of the country house. Each entry is accompanied by captivating quotes and illustrations from period manuals and advice books, lending the book a truly authentic feel and voice.

In addition to its wealth of information, the book also includes an informative list of houses to visit, each chosen for its relevance to the descriptions and themes explored in the book. This feature makes the book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in exploring the rich heritage and traditions of country houses.

In conclusion, "The Country House: A Guide to the Self-Contained World of the Country House" is a must-read for anyone with an interest in history, architecture, or the social customs of the past. With its comprehensive and engaging approach, the book offers a glimpse into the world of country houses, providing a rich and immersive experience for readers.

Foreword by Julian Fellowes, creator of Downton Abbey:
"This is the world that Ruth Binney has brought so wonderfully to life in her book. Inside the country house, what exactly were the duties of the master's valet and the lady's maid? How did these fit into the daily routine? And what were the protocols for visitors? The answers to these, and many more questions, are revealed in this entertaining and intimate guide to the self-contained world of the country house. Here you'll learn the rules of etiquette essential both upstairs and down - for both residents and visitors - marvel at the intricacies of housekeeping, and enter a bygone age of hunts, house parties, and grand balls. All these aspects of country house life, and many more, are introduced here through the contemporary maxims used to instruct the members of the household and their guests, from running a large kitchen to entertaining royalty. Each is brought to life with both practical detail and direct, compelling quotes and illustrations from period manuals and advice books, giving every entry a totally authentic feel and 'voice.' Rounding off the book is an informative list of houses to visit, stressing the features that relate directly to the descriptions included in the book."

Weight: 554g
Dimension: 190 x 161 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910821312